Removing painted name

I am going to change the name of my newly purchased 1990 14.2. The old name, Sparkling Drive (yuk!), is painted on the transom. Not wanting to do any harm to the finish or fiberglass, does anyone have a proven product or method to remove? Conversely, what not to use?

I'm thinking about rubbing compound. Or, paint remover but I'm afraid that may ruin the finish.

Any Do's and Don'ts would be greatly appreciated.

By the way, since I purchased and picked up my boat last July 4th, her name will be Independence (which is how I fell when we're sailing!).

Bigsky

I found an article on Sailnet that talks about excatly what you waht to do:

http://www.sailnet.com/collections/...&coll_cat=Buying&Coll_name=Buying and Selling

(Don't forget to make an offering of beer to Neptune when you change the name. It's the only way to stave off the bad luck.)


Good luck,
Dave

Dave,

This is great, thanks for the link!

And don't worry, Neptune will be well taken care of. I've got that covered.

I'll post my results when complete for future name changers.

Bigsky

Don't be surprised that after you remove the old paint you see a "ghost" in the gel coat from the old name.
Generally this ghost image passes the 20ft test.

For thoes who are interested, I read the article and what it basically recommends is that you start with a mild abrasive such as toothpast (I skiped this part, I did not want to ruin my toothbrush) and work your way up.

What worked for me was 000 steel wool. I wet the area slightly and just threw some elbow into it. Eventually all came off with a faint shadow left. No harm to the finish. After I did that, I gave it a few coats of wax and wa la!

I'll order the new name logo and slap it on her, immediatly followed by a toast to ol' king neptune.

Thanks again Dave,

Bigsky